Stainless steel dominates the metal market in home furnishings. But zinc is worth a look too, especially for countertops and tables. Zinc lends an industrial look to a dining room but it is also softer than stainless steel, which gives zinc a warmer look.

Of course, zinc does oxidize, and the metal will change color over time (often to a slightly blue-green hue). If you want to maintain the original sheen you will need to polish the surface or cover it with a layer of beeswax. But most people actually like the more weathered look of zinc's aged patina. Though, as with any aging process, there can be an awkward stage when the surface just looks stained.

Zinc is popular in bars in part because it is easy to clean and has natural anti bacterial properties. The downside of zinc is that because it is a soft metal it is easily scratched and very hot things can harm it, according to Countertops Guide.

Do you have any zinc surfaces? How have they aged? Any risks...or rewards?